running with the 1/2 tank is a good idea. i haven't even tried that! :-)

the reason you'd want to do that is the ensure that you're getting enough gas even at low gas levels. you might want to check the level of the carb. if your engine is mounted up right, your carb is likely above the middle of the fuel tank. that means when the fuel drops below the carb, it'll have to work to suck that fuel up, hence the leaning out and dying.

the good thing is that deadsticking is a part of flying so at least you're getting a lot of practice!!!